Life as a Marine > Bases / Deployment
Living and Working On Base
No matter where a Marine goes, there will be much to see and do. Marine Corps bases are located throughout the U.S. and all over the world. Time off for travel and sightseeing is afforded to all Marines, no matter where they are stationed.
There are plenty of recreational opportunities both on and off base. Fitness centers house much of the intramural activities, such as basketball and swimming. There are also multi-denominational chapels on many bases for religious services and activities.
Most bases often have medical facilities available to active-duty Marines, their dependents, and retirees. If there are no medical facilities available on base, Marines are referred to a civilian facility at little or no cost.
Department of Defense schools for Marines and their dependents are located on most major bases.
For further information about some of the larger Marine bases, click here.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Question:
- Can Marines choose where they will be stationed?
- Answer:
- Marines are stationed based on their experience, jobs, and the Corps' needs at the time. Most Marine Corps bases are located on either the east or west coasts of the United States. However, there are a few bases overseas, such as Japan.

